Akwesasne Child & Family Services; located in Kanonkwatsheri:io Health Facility Tel: 613-575-2341 Fax: 613-575-1154 "Children are gifts from the Creator we must nurture and guide through the journey of life" Akwesasne Child & Family Services is staffed by caring individuals who are trained to provide a full range of services. We support children and families experiencing difficulties. These support systems are: Case Management, Family Support, Youth Protection, Community Support, Traditional Support and Resource Development. Akwesasne Child and Family Services was first established in 1971 , and employed one Social Worker. The worker was under the direction and supervision of the Valleyfield Richelieu Social Services. Today Akwesasne Child and Family Services (ACFS) employs 23 people. The mandate of ACFS, is the protection of children at risk of abuse, neglect, emotional or developmental impairment. They provide referrals to appropriate services, and also counseling. MISSION STATEMENT We care, trust and believe in the strength of Akwesasne. PHILOSOPHY: As gifts from the Creator and as the future of our Nation, it is essential that the children and youth receive the care and nurturing they need and deserve. AKWESASNE CHILD AND FAMILY SERVICES MANDATE: As a Child Protection Agency we are committed to the health, safety, well being and development of our children. ACFS Services: CASE MANAGEMENT This process begins by receiving information that will determine how an individual or family can be assisted. A plan of action is then put into place to provide services based on that need. Assessment, Intake, Referrals, Brief Services, Service Plans, Advocacy FAMILY SUPPORT Family Support is here to provide service based on your needs of assessment. This is where you will receive the individual or family support you requested. This could range from parenting skills to budgeting your household to life skills. Life skills, Training, Referrals, Advocacy, Individual, Group and Family Counseling YOUTH PROTECTION Youth Protection Workers are here to assist youth who ore in need of protection. They help the Case Managers investigate and determine the needs of youth and offer additional support along with the Family Support Workers. Investigations, Monitoring, Conflict Resolution, Advocating, Support. RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT: Resource Development is set up to provide Care Homes for children and youth in need of a safe home. We are actively involved in the recruitment of Care Givers interested in being Foster Parents. We also have extensive resource material available for public use. Foster Care, Foster Home Placement, Recruitment, Home Studies/Visits, Resources COMMUNITY SUPPORT Offers primary prevention programming to schools, agencies, organizations, groups and the community. These presentations and workshops are designed to meet the objectives of supporting the community toward a positive approach to wellness. Primary Prevention Programming, Children & Youth Activities, Inter-Agency Support TRADITIONAL SUPPORT Traditional Support is another support unit set up to meet the needs of people who require a more traditional approach to healing. Many cultural activities are provided for the community and clients. Cultural Teachings/Presentations, Traditional Needs Assessment, Traditional Consultation YOUNG OFFENDERS UNIT This is a sub unit of the Family Support Unit. It is designed to assist and guide youth through the process of probation and parole. Prevention /Intervention, Liaison with Probation & Parole, Monitor Community Service Hours. Who Do we Assist? Individuals and familes requesting our services. These may be people concerned for a youth or child, but are not aware of how they should proceed. We are available to support, guide and assist you through the helping process to ensure your concerns are being met. If you know of a child, youth or family that would benefit from these services, please contact: Akwesasne Child & Family Services at: (613) 575-2341. This service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. To contact our 24-hour, On Call Worker, please call the Mohowk Police Service emergency number at: (613) 575-2000